UPDATED 01:25 EDT / MAY 22 2015

NEWS

iOS 9 rumor update: Maps to include public transit info, new font and more

Apple’s built-in Maps app for iOS has lacked public transit information ever since the iPhone maker dropped Google as its provider for map data in 2012. A report from 9to5Mac on Thursday indicates that Apple is preparing to debut its Transit feature for Maps in iOS 9 at the company’s annual Worldwide Developers Conference in June.

Public transit routes and a new Maps user interface

Along with bus, train and subway routes, Transit will reportedly also include an enhanced user interface with larger icons, a trip-planning feature and a “Transit view” – a new map view in addition to the current Standard, Hybrid, and Satellite or Flyover views.

Maps for indoor spaces

Apple is already mapping the interior of its own Cupertino offices, said the report. Apple is using autonomous robots equipped with iBeacon sensors to collect data for its ongoing indoor mapping project.

The intention is to add navigation information for major buildings, offices and landmarks to Maps. It is unclear whether this feature will make it into iOS 9 or be introduced at a later date.

Street View, maybe

Apple is also working on high-resolution street view footage for Maps. Earlier this year a LiDAR-equipped minivan was spotted in the San Francisco Bay Area and linked to Apple’s effort to include Street View functionality similar to Google’s in its Maps app. There have been no reports as to when this may debut on iOS.

Other iOS rumors we heard this week

 

Apple Watch font comes to iOS 9

Earlier this week 9to5Mac reported that Apple intends to replace the Helvetica Neue font, in use since iOS 7 was released in 2013, with the Apple-designed San Francisco font revealed alongside the Apple Watch last year.

Apple created the San Francisco font “specifically for legibility” and to scale more dynamically to “maintain clarity and legibility” regardless of text size – ostensibly to cater for the small Apple Watch display.

When iOS 9 is released, the San Francisco font will be available on iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

One app to control your connected home

Soon after Apple confirmed that the first HomeKit-enabled accessories will go on sale next month, a report surfaced that Apple is working on a Home app for iOS 9 to let users control connected HomeKit-enabled accessories from their iPhone or iPad.

Image via apple.com

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